Luxury crossovers are big business. One of the segment’s perennial best sellers is the Acura MDX and for good reason. But giving this long-time favorite a run for its money is the brand-new Cadillac XT5.

But which of these leather-lined machines is better? Well, that’s up to YOU to decide! Pick a favorite and vote in our poll.

Starting off, we focus on the Acura. This brand’s MDX features a familiar 3.5-liter V6 engine. For 2017 it’s rated at a healthy 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard, as is a nine-speed automatic transmission.

But for drivers that want more, grip and handling prowess that is, the company also offers their Super Handling-All-Wheel-Drive system. This technology can send torque to either the front or rear axles as required but it can also apportion it from side to side at the back for enhanced steering performance.

As for the Caddy in this comparison, it’s motivated by a 3.6-liter V6. Bettering the Acura, it delivers 310 ponies and 271 lb-ft of twist, figures that are both SAE certified. Improving fuel economy and performance is a quick-witted eight-speed automatic transmission.

Like the MDX, all-wheel drive is available. The XT5’s “twin-clutch” system is very similar to what’s in the Acura; it’s driver selectable, can send up to 100 percent of available torque to either the front or rear axle and can even apportion that twist from left to right at the back wheels. Pretty neat! It can also fully disconnect for maximum efficiency.

When it comes to pricing, the Cadillac XT5 starts at right around $40,000, a not-unreasonable figure. As for the Acura MDX, it’s a little more ambitions, kicking off at about 45 large.

For more information on each of these luxury crossovers you can compare them right here. And don’t forget to vote in our latest poll!

The Q5 crossover has been a huge success for Audi. It’s a big seller around the world. Pushing this successful nameplate forward, Audi unveiled the redesigned 2017 model at the Paris Motor Show.

As before, it combines the sportiness of a sedan with a roomy, versatile interior. Maximum cargo space measures 21.5 cubic feet, nearly half a cube more than the previous model.

This improvement comes courtesy of larger exterior dimensions; the Q5 has grown slightly in nearly every direction, yet in spite of these increases it’s up to 198 pounds lighter than the outgoing version. That’s what you call progress.

Helping deliver such an impressive weight loss is a mixed-material body that’s made from both steel and aluminum. Naturally, with less mass to haul around this crossover should be more efficient than before. Segment-leading aerodynamics should also help in this area as well and provide best-in-class interior quietness.

Another feature of note is the optional Audi Virtual Cockpit. It impresses with a 12.3-inch display that replaces a traditional instrument cluster. It offers two different view modes including one where the navigation map takes over most of the screen for an immersive experience. And really, there’s no excuse for getting lost if you’ve got this!

Underhood, a wide variety of gasoline and diesel engines will be offered to European customers. The range should be both more economical and powerful than before. A 3.0-liter V6 diesel is the top compression-ignition offering, delivering 286 horsepower. The peak gasoline unit has a capacity of 2.0-liters and provides 252 ponies.

As for transmissions, customers on this side of the Atlantic can get a six-speed manual, a seven-ratio S tronic self-shifter or even an eight-speed tiptronic automatic. As always with Audi, quattro all-wheel drive is available. This world-famous traction-enhancing technology gains a disconnecting rear axle for greater efficiency than before.

The 2017 Audi Q5 is set to go on sale in Europe early next year. The vehicle will be manufactured at a brand new factory in Mexico. Base price should be 45,100€, which is about 51 grand.

Monterey Car Week is all wrapped up with a pretty little bow. There were plenty of interesting reveals at this hallowed event, including two luxury concepts.

Yes, both Mercedes-Benz and Cadillac chose this venue to unveil two important design studies, the Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6 and Escala, respectively. The former is an all-electric coupe, the latter a liftback flagship model.

Starting with the Benz, it’s an all-electric behemoth measuring 18.5 feet long and seven feet wide. Access to its sumptuous cabin, which seats up to four people, is provided by two gullwing doors.

Underneath its slick, unadorned bodywork is an 80 kWh battery pack and four electric motors, one at each wheel. This powertrain supposedly provides a 200-ish mile driving range along with a zero-to-62-mile-an-hour acceleration time of less than four seconds. Top speed is an advertised 155 miles an hour.

With a boat tail rear, split back glass and unadorned bodywork the Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6 looks like something from the art-deco era, not the 21st century. Keeping things modern, it’s also equipped with massive 24-inch wheels and an augmented-reality windshield.

As for the Cadillac Escala, this concept is a bit more down-to-earth, looking like something that could actually make it into production. In fact, this car hints at what an even more upscale companion to the CT6 could look like.

Size-wise, this model is roughly six inches longer than the CT6. Beyond that, it also features a host of unique exterior styling details, including a fresh grille, special headlamps and, of course, a liftback rear.

Underhood, the Escala features a brand-new 4.2-liter, twin-turbocharged V8 engine. Yes, you read that right, this car features a luxury-appropriate engine with two banks of four cylinders, which should deliver torrents of silky smooth power. With GM’s Active Fuel Management it should be able to operate on just four cylinders, improving efficiency.

So, which of these sexy design studies to YOU prefer, the Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6 or Cadillac’s Escala? Pick a favorite and please vote in our latest poll!

]]>http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2016/08/poll-vision-mercedes-maybach-6-or-cadillac-escala-.html/feed9more]]>Poll: Jaguar F-Pace or BMW X5?http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2016/07/poll-jaguar-f-pace-or-bmw-x5-.html
http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2016/07/poll-jaguar-f-pace-or-bmw-x5-.html#commentsWed, 20 Jul 2016 15:00:47 +0000http://www.autoguide.com/?p=410996Poll: Jaguar F-Pace or BMW X5?Which luxury crossover do you prefer, Jaguar’s brand-new F-Pace or the familiar and amusing BMW X5? Both of these versatile utilities provide plenty of sport, but one is British and the other German, meaning there are fundamental philosophical differences between them. Starting with the Jag, it offers three different engines including a four-cylinder diesel and... more]]>

Which luxury crossover do you prefer, Jaguar’s brand-new F-Pace or the familiar and amusing BMW X5?

Both of these versatile utilities provide plenty of sport, but one is British and the other German, meaning there are fundamental philosophical differences between them.

Starting with the Jag, it offers three different engines including a four-cylinder diesel and a force-fed gasoline V6. The top offering is a 3.0-liter supercharged unit that’s good for a more-than-competitive 380 horsepower; torque clocks in at 332 lb-ft.

The only transmission available in the F-Pace is a highly responsive eight-speed automatic supplied by ZF. All-wheel drive is standard.

Likewise, the X5 offers several engines including an efficient diesel, but the most muscular offering is a 3.0-liter inline six. Thanks to a turbocharger and direct injection, it puts out impressive figures. Both horsepower and torque measure 300, though this engine is probably very conservatively rated. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard.

Differing slightly from the F-Pace, this BMW offers a choice of either rear- or all-wheel drive. But design is where these crossovers really stand apart. The Jaguar is clean looking, almost to the point of being sparse. In contrast, the X5 is full of interesting surfaces, swoopy shapes and unusual cues. Do you prefer simplicity or busy styling? If you like the former, the Jag will be more appealing; if it’s the latter, go with BMW.

So, which of these popular luxury utility vehicles would YOU rather own? Compare them right here and please, vote in our latest poll!

Aside from the addition of a number to its name, this car destroys the notion that GM can’t build world-class products, silencing critics that claim Caddy isn’t capable of beating the Germans at their own game. It offers class-exclusive technology, ample luxury and more advanced engineering than a 21st century fighter jet.

Sized to compete with short-wheelbase versions of cars like the BMW 7 Series and Audi’s A8, the CT6 is nonetheless lighter than rivals. An entry-level, rear-wheel-drive model with the 2.0-liter engine clocks in at a featherweight 3,657 pounds, just five more than its noticeably smaller sibling, the CTS. Compared to a Mercedes-Benz S550 4Matic, this example is more than half a ton lighter.

But that’s enough numbers; the CT6 offers plenty of emotion, appealing to your right brain as well as it does to the complimentary and often times drearily pedantic left hemisphere. Here are six things you need to know about Cadillac’s latest offering.

6. It’s Roomy

The CT6 is a certifiably large car, something its cabin can attest to. From a space standpoint, even the huskiest of drivers will find little to complain about; this Cadillac’s front accommodations are impressively comfortable, but its back seat is even nicer. Lanky riders have ample sprawling room in all major directions. Just make certain to limit occupancy because the enormous floor tunnel makes the center seat as inhospitable as the peak of Everest.

Matching its cabin, the trunk of this sedan is also large. Measuring more than 15 cubic feet, you’ll probably be hard pressed to fill it in normal usage.

5. The Interior is Beautifully Crafted

The CT6’s interior is nicely done, though perhaps not quite as over-the-top luxurious as what you get in an S-Class. Still, the materials are high quality and the overall design is pleasantly clean.

I particularly like the simplicity; there are no gimmicks or added design flourishes thrown in for the sake of looking fancy. This car’s interior is sensibly laid out and easy to use.

Upping the style factor, our test example had cinnamon-hued leather splashed across its seats and armrests. This creamy-soft material is lickably delicious, contrasting beautifully with darker colored pieces. The addition of carbon-fiber is a nice touch, but this material shouldn’t be wasted on trim; save it for structural components where its weight-saving abilities can be put to better use.

4. It’s FAST!

When equipped with its range-topping engine, the CT6 is seriously fast. Offering 3.0-liters of maximum cylinder capacity along with twin turbochargers and direct fuel injection, this V6 delivers 404 SAE-certified horses along with 400 lb-ft of torque.

That capable motor catapults this sedan to extra-legal velocities in short enough order to make you chortle like a village idiot; the sprint to 60 feels like it takes place in the brisk low five-second range. Aside from impressive performance, this engine is also incredibly refined, quiet and free from unwanted vibration.

For greater confidence, all-wheel drive is standard with this powerplant, ditto with the mid-range 3.6-liter V6. Base CT6s, ones hauled around by the 2.0-liter turbo, are exclusively rear-drive.

3. A Brusque Transmission

Regrettably, not everything is perfect with this car’s drivetrain. In certain situations, the standard eight-speed transmission’s shift quality leaves much to be desired. Sure, it’s as smooth and refined as any other cutting-edge automatic while climbing through the ratio stack, but when you’re rolling to a stop, the downshifts are absolutely ragged, nearly to the point of causing whiplash injuries. This is probably an issue that can be corrected with tuning, but it’s an inconceivable misstep given how dialed in the rest of this car is.

Oh well, at least this gearbox helps make the CT6 quite efficient. Despite having all-wheel drive and more than 400 horsepower, it stickers at 18 miles per gallon city, 26 highway and 21 mpg combined.

2. A Tech-Offensive

If owning the latest and greatest electronic gadgets is your thing, this Cadillac is sure to please. It’s loaded with plenty of advanced technology befitting a luxury flagship.

One of the first things you’ll notice is the customizable, 12-inch, full-color display that serves as the instrument cluster. It allows you to tailor the look and feel to your preference.

Beyond this, the latest version of the company’s CUE infotainment system is simple to figure out and unexpectedly alert, responding to inputs without any stutters or lag. In keeping with current trends, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also included, as is 4G LTE connectivity.

Park assist, automatic high-beams, emergency braking and adaptive cruise control are but a handful of the other niceties this car was equipped with. Our test model also featured the 34-speaker Bose Panaray sound system, a $3,700 option. You read that right, 34 SPEAKERS!

One of the CT6’s most useful items is the rearview camera mirror. Engineers have fitted the standard aft-facing mirror with a full-color display. You can toggle it on or off to show a video feed from the backup camera, which increases your sternward visibility by more than 200 percent. It’s super convenient but does take a little getting used to as the screen’s frame rate results in unnaturally crisp images as things move through the field of view.

1. It Drives Small

The CT6 is a roomy rocketship with enough tech to keep even a millennial entertained, but it’s also surprisingly entertaining to drive, feeling more like an ATS than an Escalade.

Our test car was equipped with optional Magnetic Ride Control, part of the $3,300 Active Chassis Package, a system that works just as brilliantly in other models as it does in this Cadillac. It allows you to customize how the suspension feels, from stiff and sporty to boulevard smooth.

The car’s steering is dialed in, the brakes confidence inspiring and the light curb weight makes the CT6 feel ready to dance.

As for pricing, our Premium Luxury trim model stickered for a ritzy $81,840, including $995 in delivery fees, a price that was inflated by more than $13,000 in options. Skip some of the fancy features and you can get a high-end CT6 for less than $70k, which is a more than fair price, especially compared to its primary rivals.

]]>http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2016/07/6-things-to-know-about-the-2017-cadillac-ct6.html/feed8more]]>Poll: Lexus LS 460 or BMW 750i?http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2016/07/poll-lexus-ls-460-or-bmw-750i-.html
http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2016/07/poll-lexus-ls-460-or-bmw-750i-.html#commentsSat, 16 Jul 2016 15:00:33 +0000http://www.autoguide.com/?p=409432Poll: Lexus LS 460 or BMW 750i?Which flagship-caliber luxury sedan would YOU rather drive? Given a choice between the Lexus LS and BMW 7 Series, do you have a favorite? You should, but if you don’t here’s some background on each of these highly desirable cars. Starting with the LS 460, it features a silky-smooth V8 engine displacing – surprise, surprise... more]]>

Which flagship-caliber luxury sedan would YOU rather drive?

Given a choice between the Lexus LS and BMW 7 Series, do you have a favorite? You should, but if you don’t here’s some background on each of these highly desirable cars.

Starting with the LS 460, it features a silky-smooth V8 engine displacing – surprise, surprise – 4.6-liters. It delivers a healthy 386 horsepower along with 367 lb-ft of peak torque. A standard eight-speed automatic transmission routes all that torque to either the rear or all four tires if you opt for all-wheel drive, which is available.

The BMW in this mini-comparison also features a V8 engine, except unlike its rival this unit is unnaturally aspirated. Yes, with twin turbochargers huffing air into its 4.4-liter lungs the 750i is bestowed with 445 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. Like the LS, an eight-speed automatic is the only transmission offered.

The Bimmer may have a significant power advantage, but one area where the Lexus has a distinct edge is pricing. It starts off around $73,000, roughly 76 large if you want all-wheel drive. In contrast, the 750i kicks off at more than $95,000! Naturally, the luxury of four-corner traction will set you back another couple grand.

If it’s any consolation you can eschew that big V8 in the Bimmer and instead opt for a turbocharged straight-six. This strategy will save a bit of cash, but it’s still more expensive than the LS. A 740i starts at a princely $82,295.

Which European sports sedan would YOU rather own, the new Jaguar XE or a version of the longstanding BMW 3 Series? Can’t decide? Neither can we!

In 35t guise, the Jag in this heads-up comparison is powered by a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 that puts out 340 horses and 332 lb-ft of torque. For drivers that want more economy at the expense of performance, a pair of 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines are also offered, one consuming diesel, the other gasoline.

A responsive eight-speed automatic transmission is standard with the bent-six and helps all-wheel-drive versions of the car reach 60 miles an hour in just five seconds flat.

Furthering its accelerative prowess and impressive driving dynamics is a lightweight, aluminum-intensive architecture. This platform improves efficiency and provides a near 50:50 front-to-rear distribution of weight for optimal handling.

Focusing our attention on the BMW, the 340i model is hauled around by a 3.0-liter inline six. This “TwinPower” turbocharged engine is rated at a healthy 320 ponies with 330 lb-ft of torque, though these are likely very conservative figures.

As for transmissions, Bimmer buyers can choose either a standard eight-speed automatic gearbox or, as a no-cost option, a six-speed stick, which we love. All-wheel-drive models with the self-shifting transmission can reach mile-a-minute velocity in as little as 4.6 seconds.

So, that’s a quick look at these two thoroughbred sports sedans. The Jaguar XE and BMW 3 Series each have their own benefits, picking a favorite is not an easy task. Still, you’ve got to choose… so you can vote in our latest poll! If you need more information on each car, feel free to compare them directly right here.

]]>http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2016/07/poll-jaguar-xe-or-bmw-3-series-.html/feed2more]]>Poll: Lexus RC 350 or Audi A5?http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2016/06/poll-lexus-rc-350-or-audi-a5-.html
http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2016/06/poll-lexus-rc-350-or-audi-a5-.html#commentsSat, 25 Jun 2016 15:00:46 +0000http://www.autoguide.com/?p=404926Poll: Lexus RC 350 or Audi A5?If you want a smallish luxury coupe, which model should you choose? There are a number of choices, but let’s compare the Lexus RC 350 and Audi A5, two worthwhile options. Both of these cars offer stylish exteriors, premium cabins and ample performance, all without totally breaking the bank. But which one is a better... more]]>

If you want a smallish luxury coupe, which model should you choose? There are a number of choices, but let’s compare the Lexus RC 350 and Audi A5, two worthwhile options.

Both of these cars offer stylish exteriors, premium cabins and ample performance, all without totally breaking the bank. But which one is a better option? Let’s break it down…

Several powertrain offerings are available in the Lexus RC range, but the top engine is a 3.5-liter V6 that delivers a stable’s worth of horses, 306 to be precise. Torque production measures 277 lb-ft, all of which can be sent to either the rear wheels or all four.

Handling shifting duties is an eight-speed automatic transmission, unless you opt for all-wheel drive, in which case you’ll have to make do with a six-ratio gearbox. Why Lexus does this is beyond us…

Simplifying things, just one engine is offered in the Audi, a smooth running 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. It puts out 220 horses along with 258 lb-ft of peak torque. The company’s quattro all-wheel-drive system is standard, for maximum traction in all conditions.

Unlike its Japanese rival, the A5 offers either a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed automatic for ample choice, which is always appreciated.

On the efficiency front the Audi is a bit thriftier. Comparing all-wheel-drive models with automatic transmissions the A5 should deliver a combined fuel-economy rating of 25 MPG. The Lexus is a good bit less economical, delivering a claimed average of 21, though it is a lot more powerful.

Which of these luxury coupes do YOU prefer? Compare them here and make sure to vote in our poll so we can see which one is the more popular option!

The restyled and refreshed 2017 Acura MDX is heading to dealerships with a starting price of $44,890 including destination.

The new price for the best-selling three-row luxury SUV of all time marks an increase of $935 compared to the outgoing model. For the 2017 model year, Acura gave the MDX substantial upgrades to go along with its updated exterior styling, featuring a new face with the brand’s Diamond Pentagon grille, which has been integrated with a more sculptured hood, front fascia, front fenders and revised Jewel Eye headlights.

Powering the 2017 Acura MDX is a 3.5-liter i-VTEC V6 engine with 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. When equipped with front-wheel drive and Idle Stop, the SUV returns an EPA estimated 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway for a 23-mpg combined rating. With Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) and Idle Stop, the 2017 Acura MDX will net 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, resulting in 22-mpg combined. The SH-AWD model will arrive later this year and pricing has not yet been announced.

“We’re raising the Acura MDX’s game for 2017 with premium new features and technologies that luxury SUV buyers want, complemented by bold, new styling we know they’re going to love,” said Jon Ikeda, vice president and general manager, Acura Division. “Backed by its high-performance credentials, the 2017 MDX has advanced its competitiveness and will continue its legacy of leadership as the best-selling three-row luxury SUV in America.”

]]>http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2016/06/2017-acura-mdx-heads-to-dealerships-priced-at-44-890.html/feed0more]]>What a Real Lincoln Revival Should Look Like: The Skinny with Craig Colehttp://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2016/06/what-a-real-lincoln-revival-should-look-like-the-skinny-with-craig-cole.html
http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2016/06/what-a-real-lincoln-revival-should-look-like-the-skinny-with-craig-cole.html#commentsWed, 01 Jun 2016 13:15:25 +0000http://www.autoguide.com/?p=400393What a Real Lincoln Revival Should Look Like: The Skinny with Craig ColeLincoln has finally staunched the bleeding, but how can they improve their reputation and continue to grow? I have a few ideas. more]]>Get the Flash Player to see this player.

Welcome to a new editorial segment called The Skinny, hosted by your favorite Craig Cole. We hope this will be a weekly feature where Craig sounds off (gives you the skinny, if you will) on the latest news from the auto industry or whatever else he has on his mind.

Lincoln is a brand that’s been totally forgotten for more than a decade. If Ford were a parent it would be serving hard time for child abuse. But things are finally starting to improve.

A month or two ago, I tested the brand’s new MKX crossover and was pleasantly surprised. With the optional 335 horsepower EcoBoost V6 that thing hauled a Kardashian’s worth of ass. It was also quiet, comfortable and smooth.

Their smaller MKC is nice, as is the MKZ sedan, and the Navigator, well, it appeals to certain people, right?

With decent product on hand Lincoln’s sales have finally started growing again following a decade of decline, in fact, they sold more than 101,000 vehicles in the U.S. last year. The brand is also doing well in China, where they delivered nearly 12,000 units in 2015, its first full year on the books.

Clearly they’ve finally staunched the bleeding, but how can they improve their reputation and continue to grow? Well, I have a few ideas. Watch the video above for more details on my plans for Lincoln. You might be shocked at what I would do if I were in charge.

]]>http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2016/06/what-a-real-lincoln-revival-should-look-like-the-skinny-with-craig-cole.html/feed7more]]>Poll: Acura ILX or Mercedes-Benz CLA250?http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2016/05/poll-acura-ilx-or-mercedes-benz-cla250-.html
http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2016/05/poll-acura-ilx-or-mercedes-benz-cla250-.html#commentsWed, 18 May 2016 15:00:07 +0000http://www.autoguide.com/?p=397902Poll: Acura ILX or Mercedes-Benz CLA250?Which of these small luxury sedans do you prefer? more]]>

Small luxury is becoming BIG business these days, which is why we’re comparing two of the most popular sedans in this burgeoning segment.

Yes, the Acura ILX and Mercedes-Benz CLA250 are facing off in our latest poll. Which of these popular four-doors will come out on top? Let’s find out!

Starting alphabetically, the Acura features a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine under its hood. This propulsion unit is good for 201 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of peak torque. For quick shifting, it’s paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, the only gearbox available in the ILX.

As for the Mercedes, it’s motivated by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-banger. With a stable of 208 ponies, it delivers comparable horsepower to its Japanese rival but blows it away when it comes to torque. All told, it puts out 258 lb-ft of twist, all of which is available from 1,250 to 4,00 RPM. Likewise, it features a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. If you want to row your own, too bad! A manual isn’t available. Front- or all-wheel drive is offered to appease snow-belt customers.

As for pricing, the ILX kicks off at around $29,000, including $940 in shipping and handling fees. Fuel economy measures 25 miles per gallon city, 35 highway and 29 MPG combined.

Further mirroring the Acura, Mercedes’ offering starts around $33,000, a price that includes $925 in delivery charges. Curiously, with front-wheel-drive the CLA250 is slightly more economical than the ILX, managing to deliver 26 miles per gallon in urban conditions and 38 on interstate jaunts, figures that result in an average of 30 MPG.

So there you go! Which of these small luxury sedans do YOU prefer? Which one would YOU rather own? If you still need more information about each, please compare them here, AND VOTE IN OUR POLL!!!

]]>http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2016/05/poll-acura-ilx-or-mercedes-benz-cla250-.html/feed4more]]>Poll: Cadillac CTS-V or Mercedes-AMG E 63 S?http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2016/05/poll-cadillac-cts-v-or-mercedes-amg-e-63-s-.html
http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2016/05/poll-cadillac-cts-v-or-mercedes-amg-e-63-s-.html#commentsWed, 11 May 2016 15:00:30 +0000http://www.autoguide.com/?p=396653Poll: Cadillac CTS-V or Mercedes-AMG E 63 S?This week, two ultra-high-performance four-doors face off in a no-holds-barred public-opinion poll. There can be only one favorite, but which car will drive away with top honors? Yes, it’s hard to argue with either the Cadillac CTS-V or Mercedes-AMG E 63. Both of these sizable sedans offer bucket-loads of power and sophisticated chassis that are... more]]>

This week, two ultra-high-performance four-doors face off in a no-holds-barred public-opinion poll. There can be only one favorite, but which car will drive away with top honors?

Yes, it’s hard to argue with either the Cadillac CTS-V or Mercedes-AMG E 63. Both of these sizable sedans offer bucket-loads of power and sophisticated chassis that are basically ready for the racetrack.

Starting close to home, Detroit’s offering features a 6.2-liter small-block V8. With just two valves per cylinder and pushrods, yes, PUSHRODS, it still manages to crank out an awe-inspiring 640 horsepower with 630 lb-ft of peak torque. A belt-driven supercharger forces air into its lungs and helps deliver these amazing figures.

As for transmissions, this Caddy’s only offering is an eight-speed automatic that can, of course, be controlled via paddle shifters. A manual gearbox is, sadly, no longer on the menu.

Somewhat making up for this lack of choice is GM’s fantastic Magnetic Ride Control, which automatically adjusts to changing road conditions. It gives you a luxuriant ride when you need it and stiffness when you want it.

Focusing attention on the E 63, it features a 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 engine under its hood. This cutting-edge propulsion unit is good for 585 horses and 590 lb-ft of twist. It’s matched to a quick-shifting seven-speed sports transmission, the only gearbox available. The company’s 4Matic all-wheel-drive system is standard.

All told, this Mercedes-AMG sedan can hit 60 miles an hour in as little as 3.6 seconds. Is that fast enough for you?

So, which of these two magnum-caliber cars would YOU rather park in your driveway? Please, vote in our latest poll so we can find a favorite. If you still need more information, feel free to compare these two models directly right here.